A Level Thinking Skills CAIE

This subject is broken down into 40 topics in 4 modules:

  1. Module: Problem Solving 10 topics
  2. Module: Critical Thinking 10 topics
  3. Module: Argument Analysis 10 topics
  4. Module: Reasoning and Decision Making 10 topics
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  • 40
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  • 1+
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This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Thinking Skills

Module: Problem Solving

Arguing by analogy

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Arguing by analogy

Arguing by Analogy: An Overview

  • Analogy is a type of argument that offers a comparison to make a particular point clear.
  • Arguing by analogy is often used in debates, discourse and negotiation, to draw parallels and highlight shared attributes or behaviours.
  • Analogies should only be extended as far as their similarities are valid; overstretching can lead to false conclusions.

Structure of an Analogy

  • An analogy often takes the form of "A is to B as C is to D", where A and B are the known entities and C and D are the entities being compared.
  • For an analogy to be effective, the relationship between A and B must be clear and valid.

Using Analogy in Argument

  • An analogy can support an argument by providing a familar context for the reader or listener.
  • Analogies can make abstract concepts more concrete, simplifying complex ideas and making them easier to understand.
  • Analogies should not be overused; they work best sparingly and with careful selection.

Potential Problems with Analogies

  • Faulty analogies: This occurs when the comparison is inaccurate or irrelevant, thereby leading to false or misleading conclusions.
  • Overextended analogies: Analogies should only be used as far as the similarities are relevant to the argument. Overextending an analogy can lead to misunderstanding.

Assessing Analogy in Arguments

  • When encountering an analogy in argument, it is important to judge its validity.
  • Verify the analogy by checking the underlying logic. Are there true similarities between the entities being compared?
  • Consider whether the analogy is a necessary part of the argument or is more of an illustrative tool.
  • Be aware of false or misleading analogies, as they can confuse or misdirect.

Steps to Construct an Effective Analogy

  • Identify the concept or principle you want to explain.
  • Find a comparable situation or entity with the same principle.
  • Clearly outline the similarities (and differences, if necessary) to draw your analogy.
  • Use your analogy to clarify and support your argument.

Course material for Thinking Skills, module Module: Problem Solving, topic Arguing by analogy

Thinking Skills

Module: Argument Analysis

Identifying the conclusions of arguments

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Identifying the conclusions of arguments

Identifying Conclusions in Arguments

Understanding the Structure of Arguments

  • Every argument consists of a conclusion and at least one premise.
  • The conclusion is the claim that the argument is trying to prove.
  • The premises are the reasons or evidence given to support the conclusion.

Recognising Conclusions

  • The conclusion is often signposted with words or phrases such as 'therefore', 'thus', 'hence', 'so', or 'it follows that'.
  • The conclusion may come at the beginning, middle, or end of the argument.
  • Sometimes the conclusion is not explicitly stated, requiring you to infer it based on the information given.

Strategies for Identifying Conclusions

  • Ask, "What point is the author trying to convey?" The answer to this is likely to be the conclusion.
  • Look for the claim that the other points in the argument are supporting. This claim is the conclusion.
  • If necessary, you can paraphrase the argument to make the structure clearer.

Tips and Pitfalls in Identifying Conclusions

  • There can be multiple arguments, and therefore, multiple conclusions, within a single text or speech.
  • Be careful not to confuse examples, ancillary points, or counterarguments for the conclusion.
  • Do not assume that the last claim given is the conclusion. Often arguments end with a restatement of a premise or a counterargument.
  • Don't assume the conclusion is always stated. Sometimes it is implied and has to be inferred.

Practice in Identifying Conclusions

Repeated practice is the best way to get better at identifying conclusions in arguments. Reading texts critically with an eye for argument structure, and then checking your understanding against a pre-existing analysis can be helpful. Similarly, practicing on argument deconstruction exercises will boost your skills. Opportunity for feedback, whether from a teacher, fellow thinker, or even a pre-existing analysis, is invaluable in refining your ability to identify conclusions.

Course material for Thinking Skills, module Module: Argument Analysis, topic Identifying the conclusions of arguments

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